Wildflowers

The ideal solution for a natural look where grassy lawns cannot be maintained. Once established, wildflowers are virtually maintenance-free and increase the value of your property. Perennial wildflower mixes are also popular along highways as they return every year.

Culture: Prepare seed bed as you would for any garden. For large areas, use a disc. Scatter the seeds evenly on the surface of loose soil. For fine seed, it is recommended to blend with coarse sand before sowing. Rake the seeds lightly into the soil but do not cover. In dry areas, sprinkle

Sowing Wildflower Seed

When to Plant Wildflower Seed

The best time to plant in your area depends on the climate and rainfall patterns, as well as the species you are planting. In cool climates plant annuals, perennials or mixtures of annuals and perennials in spring, early summer or late fall. Fall planting should be late enough so that seeds do not germinate until spring. Perennials can also be sewn in early fall provided that there are at least 10-12 weeks of growing time before the plants go dormant for the winter. Late fall plantings are advantageous when supplemental irrigation cannot be provided and adequate rainfall is anticipated in the spring. In mild climates, plant during the cooler months of the year, fall through spring, for best results. Fall plantings done prior to periods of rainfall will insure an early display of flowers the following spring.

Site Preparation

Proper site preparation is important for prompt germination of seed and healthy growth of seedlings. Best results will be obtained by planting on cleared ground. Remove existing vegetation to avoid competition from other plants. This may be done by pulling, tilling under, spraying with a general herbicide, or by a combination of these methods, depending upon the size of the area, type and density of vegetation and other factors. Loosen soil by scraping, tilling or scarifying. Tilling should be used utilized only when soil is very compacted and further weed control measures can be taken.

Seed Application

Method of application depends on the size of the area and the terrain. On small areas, broadcast seeds evenly either by hand or by use of a drop or cyclone spreader. It is helpful to mix in a carrier such as clean dry sand with the seed; sand adds volume and aids in even distribution of your seeds. We recommend using a ratio of 1 to 2 parts sand to 1 part seed. Rake in lightly covering seeds to a maximum depth of 2-3 times their thickness. Or drag the area lightly with a piece of chain length fence to mix the seed into the surface of the soil. For seeding large areas over one acre, specially designed seed drills are most effective. Drill to a maximum of 1/4 inch and firm soil with a culti-packer; this maximizes seed/soil contact.

Moisture

All seeds, including wildflowers, need ample moisture to germinate and to develop into healthy seedlings. Best results will be obtained by soaking the planted areas thoroughly and maintaining consistent moisture for 4 to 6 weeks -- then gradually reducing watering in non-irrigated situations, plant in the spring or before periods at anticipated rainfall. After seedlings are established, watering may be reduced depending on the climate and rainfall. In arid climates or during drought conditions, up to 1/2 inch of supplemental water per week may be required to maintain an optimal display. If weeds are present, remember that they benefit from moisture as much as the wildflowers and may dominate over watered areas.